The all groups consumer price index (CPI) for Brisbane increased by 4.3% in the 12 months to December quarter 2008 compared with a 3.7% increase in the weighted average of the eight capital cities. Brisbane recorded the highest rise of any capital city. This higher result was largely due to stronger than average rises in housing prices.

Between the September quarter 2008 and the December quarter 2008 the Brisbane CPI decreased by 0.2% compared with a decrease of 0.3% for the weighted average of the eight capital cities. Along with Sydney and Hobart, Brisbane recorded the lowest CPI decrease of all capital cities. The transport group was the main contributor to the fall in all cities due to the impact of price decreases in automotive fuel.

Despite the overall decrease, in the December 2008 quarter, most of the majority of Brisbane price categories groups increased compared with the previous quarter. The largest increases were Food (2.7%), Housing (1.3%) and Alcohol and tobacco (1.1%). Brisbane recorded the largest increase in the CPI for food compared to all other capital cities.

Over the same period, Transportation decreased 6.8%, Health 1.3% and Clothing and footwear 0.7%.

For more detailed information on the consumer price index, please refer to Consumer Price Index, Australia (cat no. 6401.0) or ring the National Information and Referral Service on 1300 135 070. This publication is released quarterly.